Using a fine-grit sandpaper, I can shape the point of my pencil to create different shapes. This makes repetative objects much easier to create.
As a rule I do not like granulation in my paintings, so I utilize a can of compressed air to blow any excessaway. I even go over the finished pencil lne with a q-tip in order to keep the lines smooth.
One of the few times that I leave the pencil rough is when I am creating flowers.